Surgical Care:

Q: Should I discuss the COVID-19 Vaccine with my primary care doctor prior to seeing my orthopedic surgeon for surgery?  

A: We recommend you discuss the vaccine with your primary care provider.  Both Pfizer and Moderna do recommend that you discuss the vaccine with your primary care provider for the following reasons:

  • If you have a history of allergies
  • If you have a fever
  • Have a bleeding disorder or are on a blood thinner
  • Are immunocompromised or are on a medicine that affects your immune system
  • Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant
  • Are breastfeeding
  • Other?

Q: Should I get the COVID-19 Vaccine before or after my planned surgery?
A: That decision will be left to the patient and their PCP.
At this time, there are no restrictions for surgical care once a patient has received the vaccine. However, testing will still be required.

Q: Can I proceed with surgery if I decline the COVID-19 Vaccine?  
A: We recommend that everyone get the vaccine if and when able to do so but do not require it. All patients require a Covid-19 test prior to surgery.

Q: If I experience symptoms after my vaccine, can I still see my orthopedic surgeon in the office?  
A: If you develop a fever over 101.0, we recommend you call the office. If you have symptoms after the vaccine, you should wait until you are symptom-free for 24 hours.

Q: If I get the Vaccine, do I still have to wear a mask?
A: Yes. We follow guidelines published by the Washington department of health for office visits.

Office visits:

Can I proceed with Viscosupplement injections before or after my vaccine?
Yes

Can I proceed with a cortisone injection before or after my vaccine?
Given the lack of clear evidence regarding potential harm with the use of corticosteroids in musculoskeletal care during the COVID-19 pandemic, robust discussion with the patients regarding the potential risks and alternative treatments is critical. Particularly in those patients who are elderly or have multiple medical co-morbidities, this communication is necessary before proceeding with corticosteroid treatment to allow patients to make an informed decision.  (Copied from the AAOS website)

Shoulders:

  • Pre vaccine instructions: If you have had a steroid injection, you should proceed with your vaccine in the non-injected arm.
  • Post vaccine instructions: Cortisone injections are NOT RECOMMENDED between vaccines.
  • Vaccinated arm: Wait 3 months
  • Non vaccinated arm: Wait 2 weeks
  • Post-op: wait 3 months after surgery

Foot/Ankle:

  • Pre Vaccine: 3 weeks
  • Post Vaccine: 3 weeks

Trauma:

  • No restrictions

All Others:

  • No restrictions

Q: Is Rebound providing vaccines?  
A: Rebound is not providing vaccines at this time, however, here are some links to vaccine resources:

Oregon

Washington